The tourism landscape in northern Guanacaste is about to witness a major transformation. Marriott International has officially confirmed the launch of a new JW Marriott All-Inclusive Resort in Costa Elena, an exclusive residential and tourism enclave located in the canton of La Cruz, near El Jobo beach.
This ambitious project will materialize through the acquisition of the existing Dreams Las Mareas resort by Mullen Real Estate Capital (MREC). Renovation and transformation work is scheduled to begin in July 2025, with the grand opening planned for the second quarter of 2026.
“We’re thrilled to expand our presence in Costa Rica with the debut of one of the first JW Marriott all-inclusive resorts. This project marks the start of a strategic collaboration with Mullen Real Estate Capital, a pioneer in the all-inclusive sector across the CALA region.”
— Uriel Burak, Vice President of International Development for the Caribbean and Latin America (CALA) at Marriott.
This will be one of the first JW Marriott all-inclusive resorts in the world, reflecting the brand’s commitment to redefining luxury through impeccable service, wellness-focused experiences, and elegant design.
A New Look for a Premier Destination
With the transformation of Dreams Las Mareas into JW Marriott Costa Elena, the region gains a significant economic engine. The project is expected to generate over 700 direct jobs, boosting the local economy and reinforcing Guanacaste’s reputation as a world-class tourism hub for North American and European travelers alike.
An Impressive Resort Footprint
Located approximately 80 km from Liberia International Airport (Daniel Oduber Quirós), the future JW Marriott resort will offer:
- 415 luxury guest rooms
- 11 specialty restaurants and bars
- 17 pools covering over 4,000 square meters
- A 1,500 m² full-service spa
- A state-of-the-art fitness center
- 900 m² of event and meeting spaces
- 270 meters of direct beach access
Plans also include the development of JW Marriott-branded luxury residences nearby, further enhancing the destination’s appeal and promoting local value chains.
“We are proud to partner with such an iconic brand as JW Marriott. Together, we aim to push the boundaries of luxury and set a new standard in the hospitality industry.”
— Jeff Mullen, President of MREC
Marriott’s Continued Growth in Costa Rica
This new venture is part of Marriott’s robust expansion strategy in Costa Rica. In 2024 alone, the group signed 10 new agreements representing over 1,000 rooms. By the end of 2025, Marriott expects to be operating 22 hotels across the country under 15 different brands, including the prestigious Ritz-Carlton Reserve collection.
📍 Location:
Costa Elena, canton of La Cruz, Guanacaste province — near El Jobo, and about 80 km from Liberia International Airport.
